No artist better captures the essence and allure of Venice than Giovanni Antonio Canal, better known as Canaletto. Despite Canaletto’s close relationship with his hometown, the world’s largest collection of his works resides not in his native Italy, but in England at the centre of the British monarchy. In 1762, George III purchased almost the entire collection amassed by Joseph Smith, British Consul in Venice and Canaletto’s principal agent, which continues to sit at the heart of The Royal Collection.

EXHIBITION ON SCREEN was granted unprecedented access to The Royal Collection’s exceptional holdings of Canaletto. This remarkable group of over 200 paintings, drawings and prints offer unparalleled insight into Canaletto’s artistry, and the city he became a master at capturing. The film also offers a rare chance to step inside two royal residences - Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle - to learn more about Joseph Smith, the man who introduced Canaletto to England.

Music by Asa Bennett